Topic Review
Mars In Situ Resource Utilization Technologies
Exploration of Mars with a human crew is widely viewed as the ultimate culmination of planetary exploration. Initial human landing on Mars would be limited to the simple in situ resource utilization (ISRU) based on atmosphere only, which is immediately accessible without the challenge of remote, autonomous mining of regolith, transporting regolith, and processing regolith. In a second generation of missions, it might be possible to include processing regolith, either for hydrated minerals or for imbedded ice.
  • 149
  • 22 Jan 2024
Topic Review
Suitable-Matching Areas’ Selection Method Based on Multi-Level Saliency
Scene-matching navigation is one of the essential technologies for achieving precise navigation in satellite-denied environments. Selecting suitable-matching areas is crucial for planning trajectory and reducing yaw.
  • 84
  • 18 Jan 2024
Topic Review
Topology Optimisation Methods for Satellite Structures
Launching satellites into the Earth’s orbit is a critical area of research, and very demanding satellite services increase exponentially as modern society takes shape. At the same time, the costs of developing and launching satellite missions with shorter development times increase the requirements of novel approaches in the several engineering areas required to build, test, launch, and operate satellites in the Earth’s orbit, as well as in orbits around other celestial bodies. One area with the potential to save launching costs is that of the structural integrity of satellites, particularly in the launching phase where the largest vibrations due to the rocket motion and subsequent stresses could impact the survival ability of the satellite. To address this problem, two important areas of engineering join together to provide novel, complete, and competitive solutions: topology optimisation methods and additive manufacturing. Topology optimisation methods are mathematical methods that allow iteratively optimising structures (usually by decreasing mass) while improving some structural properties depending on the application (load capacity, for instance), through the maximisation or minimisation of a uni- or multi-objective function and multiple types of algorithms. This area has been widely active in general and has two main core types of algorithms: continuum methods that modify continuous parameters such as density, and discrete methods that work by adding and deleting material elements in a meshing context. 
  • 131
  • 15 Jan 2024
Topic Review
Advancements of Rim-Driven Fans in Aerial Vehicles
As the aviation industry seeks sustainable propulsion solutions, innovative technologies have emerged, among which rim-driven fan (RDF) systems hold notable promise. Amid escalating concerns about greenhouse gas emissions, the aviation sector’s shift towards electric propulsion has gained impetus. RDF technology has emerged as a beacon of optimism, heralding the prospect of energy-efficient and eco-conscious air travel. 
  • 164
  • 22 Dec 2023
Topic Review
Effect of LEO Environment on Composite Materials
Space weather in terms of low earth orbits has been characterized into seven main elements, namely microgravity, residual atmosphere, high vacuum, atomic oxygen, ultraviolet and ionization radiation, solar radiation, and space debris. Each element effects on polymers and composite materials. Quantification of these effects can be evaluated by understanding the mechanisms of material degradation caused by each environmental factor along with its synergetic effect. Hence, the design elements to mitigate the material degradation can be identified. Finally, a cause-and-effect diagram (Ishikawa diagram) is designed to characterize the important design elements required to investigate while choosing a material for a satellite’s structure. This will help the designers to develop experimental methodologies to test the composite material for its suitability against the space environment. Some available testing facilities will be discussed. Some potential polymers will also be suggested for further evaluation.
  • 156
  • 21 Dec 2023
Topic Review
Energy-Saving 3D Printing Techniques for Extraterrestrial Habitation Structures
Various space agencies have shown great enthusiasm for constructing habitable structures on lunar and Martian surfaces. It was found that the combination of 3D-printed components along with an internal breathable inflatable module is the most promising technique for habitat development on the Moon and Mars. Moreover, the microwave sintering method was identified as the most energy-saving and reliable approach for melting the on-site regolith for use in the 3D printing process. 
  • 105
  • 18 Dec 2023
Topic Review
Development of Rotary-Wing Mars Unmanned Aerial Vehicles
Mars, which is adjacent to Earth in the solar system and shares similar physical dimensions and topography. The Mars surface harbors a thin atmosphere, which enables the development of Mars spacecraft. However, the complex atmospheric conditions greatly impact the operation of Martian spacecraft. In the field of rotary-wing Mars UAV research, numerous scholars have conducted extensive investigations into the following aspects: (i) the feasibility of rotary-wing Mars UAVs’ flight; (ii) the vertical-takeoff-and-landing (VTOL) capabilities of rotary-wing Mars UAVs; (iii) the development of prototypes for rotary-wing Mars UAVs. 
  • 119
  • 18 Dec 2023
Topic Review
Residual Stresses in Cold Expansion and Fatigue Life
Cold expansion technology has been widely used in aviation industries as an effective method of improving the fatigue performance of fastener holes. It can improve the fatigue life several times over without adding weight, meeting the growing demand for lightweight and durable aircraft structures. In recent years, it has been extensively studied through extensive experiments and finite element simulations to analyze the residual stresses around the fastener hole. Appropriate process parameters lead to the generation of beneficial residual stresses that influence the material microstructure, thereby improving the fatigue life of the component.
  • 122
  • 12 Dec 2023
Topic Review
Applications of Sustainable Hybrid Energy Harvesting
The potential usage of self-powered wireless sensor (WSN) systems has drawn a lot of attention to sustainable energy harvesting. Hybrid energy harvesting involves collecting energy from multiple sources and converting it into electrical energy using various transduction mechanisms. By properly integrating different energy conversion technologies, hybridization can significantly increase power outputs and improve space utilization efficiency.
  • 411
  • 28 Nov 2023
Topic Review
Artificial Intelligence in Aviation: NextGen for NextTech
The rapid advancement and adoption of artificial intelligence technologies are fundamentally transforming the landscape of the aviation industry. From flight planning to aircraft maintenance, AI-driven tools like machine learning, natural language processing, and computer vision are being integrated across nearly every aspect of modern aviation. While AI innovation holds great promise for augmenting human capabilities and enhancing safety and efficiency, it also poses new challenges for aviation education and training. This paradigm shift requires aviation professionals to possess competencies in emerging technologies and their applications in order to be effective in increasingly AI-mediated work environments. An analytical methodology and competency framework is provided to help educators address this gap. Producing graduates equipped with AI literacy and collaboration skills will be key to aviation’s intelligent future.
  • 213
  • 24 Nov 2023
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